Sonoco to Invest $40 Million to Modernize Richmond, Virginia Paperboard Mill

Sonoco Products Company, the largest producer of uncoated recycled paperboard (URB) in North America, plans to invest $40 million over the next two years to modernize and expand production at its Richmond, Virginia paperboard mill.

About 9,000 tons of added capacity

The investment will improve product quality and operating efficiency and increase the mill’s annual production capacity by approximately 9,000 tons. The Richmond mill supplies paperboard for Sonoco’s paper can packaging and produces lightweight Tan Bending Chip (TBC) grades. It will maintain its current annual output of approximately 120,000 tons throughout construction.

Howard Coker, Sonoco’s President and Chief Executive Officer said:

“Richmond has long played an important role in supporting our Consumer and Industrial packaging businesses with quality paperboard that delivers value to our customers. By adding state-of-the-art capabilities, we will further improve the quality and consistency of our products while increasing capacity that supports long-term growth.”

Two-phase project

Construction is expected to begin in early 2027. The first phase will focus on sheet formation, profile control, density and cleanliness. A second phase, targeted for completion by the end of 2028, will include investment in pulping operations, water systems, automation and employee experience improvements.